Streamline Project Closeout with Autodesk Construction Cloud’s Handover Tool

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Most people think of closeout as the final checklist items that happen only at the end of the project. But the truth is that these things really span the project lifecycle. Everything the general contractor (GC) needs to do during closeout—from preparing documentation to coordinating with the owner and maintenance team—is influenced by how data and documentation are managed throughout the project.

The Handover tool in Autodesk Construction Cloud simplifies the process of compiling handover documents from all stages of the project. GCs can easily collect and organize the needed documents set by contractual requirements and then export them as a ZIP file. With this new capability, general contractors get a more streamlined way to share closeout docs with the owner.

The challenges with construction closeout and handover

When teams start wrapping up the project to prepare for construction closeout, they often run into challenges like incomplete documentation, miscommunication between stakeholders, and last-minute data collection.

While Handover packages are typically created during closeout, compiling all the required documents can be difficult and cause delays due to missing or unorganized information. The current state of the process typically includes:

• Project site closeout 
• Client closeout 
• Organizational closeout 
• Risk assessment 
• Write final report 
• Team closeout

It sounds simple enough on paper, but teams face several challenges throughout this stage. Consider the following. 

Slow and disconnected processes
There are a lot of tasks involved in project closeout. There’s verifying warranties, conducting final inspections, obtaining signoffs, and a whole lot more. When teams use manual processes to carry out these steps, they experience delays, errors, and inefficiencies.  

And even when technology is used, stakeholders struggle with disconnected workflows and fragmented data. This is especially true if they use different software to manage their projects. Having multiple firms use a siloed tech stack is a recipe for delays and repeat errors.

Then there’s the issue of project revisions. While adjustments are inevitable throughout the job, they often create documentation gaps and disrupt the closeout timeline. It’s difficult to gather the right documentation when changes are still happening, particularly if an owner continues to request refinements while expecting a timely turnover package.

Inefficiency and risk
Handover can often feel chaotic when these tasks aren’t considered at the very start of the project. Because handover documents aren’t systematically captured throughout the project lifecycle, GCs find themselves in “a mad dash at the end” to collect the proper documentation.

This results in the closeout process going past project completion, which is frustrating for everyone.

One of the reasons for lengthy closeout processes? There’s no easy way to extract data. GCs must gather all necessary documents—which takes time if information is scattered across different systems. Then, they need to export that information to complete the handover. This manual and fragmented approach increases the risk of errors and delays.

Strained relationships between stakeholders
Incomplete or disorganized closeout documentation complicates the handover process and, ultimately, facility operations. This also creates a poor handover experience and leads to strained relationships. Remember, closeout is the project’s final phase and the last touch point between GCs and owners. A poor final impression may overshadow even a well-run project.

On the GC side, many general contractors feel like they’re constantly chasing down paperwork when getting subs and other parties to turn in closeout documents.

“It’s like being a debt collector,” remarks one GC. 

All to say that when closeout turns into a frustrating and disjointed process, it can strain professional relationships and reduce the chances of repeat business.

How does Handover solve these challenges?

Handover is built right into Autodesk Construction Cloud, so teams, workflows, and data stay connected across all project phases. Having a tightly integrated system paves the way for proactive planning, real-time data-sharing, and better collaboration, ultimately creating a streamlined closeout process for everyone. 

Connected data
Autodesk Construction Cloud’s Handover capability enables teams to capture both static PDFs and dynamic metadata, such as markups in drawings or referenceable links in RFIs, Sheets, and Submittals. They can then export all that information into a ZIP file—collating data from the earliest stages of the project.

Since teams can automatically extract the right information needed for a handover package, GCs no longer need constant, manual check-ins with their subcontractors.

Earlier decision making
Autodesk Construction Cloud keeps GCs, subs, and owners on the same platform. Teams have a single source of truth, so they can collaborate better and make the right decisions in a timely manner. 

Autodesk Construction Cloud also enables GCs to work with the client or owner early on to determine what project information should be compiled and organized. This ensures that the handover package is complete, accurate, and readily available for facilities teams.

Trusted collaboration
Autodesk Construction Cloud helps teams avoid strained relationships by simplifying, standardizing, and, in some cases, automating how data is collected. The result? Fewer errors at closeout and consistent handover documentation that meets clients’ needs.

Because project data is connected from design to handover, GCs can work more efficiently with subs to meet owner expectations—building strong, lasting partnerships.

Final words

A smooth closeout and handover process isn’t just about wrapping up a project—it’s about setting up owners and facility managers for success. Done right, general contractors leave a lasting positive impression, minimize post-project disputes, and position themselves as trusted partners for future work. Check out Autodesk Construction Cloud’s Handover tool and discover how it enables GCs to deliver a better closeout experience and ensure every project ends on a high note.

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